Where Enfield's Wasps Build Their Nests
Eaves of the borough's 1930s semis
The 1930s semi-detached houses that make up much of Southgate and Palmers Green have deep eaves that stay dry and undisturbed most of the year, which is what a queen wasp is looking for when she starts a nest in spring. By late summer a nest built into a loft eave here can reach the size of a football, often noticed by the noise before the wasps themselves are seen.
Shed roofs near Grovelands and Broomfield Park
Gardens close to Grovelands Park and Broomfield Park often have a shed or outbuilding, and it's the shed roof rather than the house itself that most often turns up a nest in these areas. It can go unnoticed for longer than a loft nest simply because nobody checks a shed roof the way they might check under house eaves.
Signs to Look For
- A grey, papery nest the size of a football or larger, usually by late summer
- Wasps repeatedly entering and leaving one spot — a loft vent, eave or air brick
- A low buzzing or rustling sound from inside a wall, loft or shed
- More wasps than usual around bins, fruit trees or open windows
Dealing With an Enfield Wasp Nest
Leave the nest undisturbed once spotted — treatment is quicker and safer before anyone's tried to deal with it themselves.
